Banished: the secret Trump deals sending migrants across the world
Summary
This Guardian Today episode investigates the Trump administration's policy of deporting immigrants to third countries with no connection to them. Investigative journalist Louisa Lovelock details the stories of Rabiatu Kuate, a nurse sent to Ghana, and Nika, an Iranian protester sent to the Central African Republic, both of whom were shackled and sent to nations where they faced no legal protection. The report reveals that 35 countries have signed secret deals to accept these deportees in exchange for millions in humanitarian aid and visa benefits, despite the US claiming to target only crim…
Topics discussed
Intro: Immigrants sent to random countries
Rabiatu's detention at a routine check-in
Flight to Ghana in shackles
Overview of the 3rd country deportation policy
Investigating the scale: 25,000 deportees
The legal loophole and lack of follow-up
35 secret deals with global governments
Dissonance: Criminals vs. non-criminals
Rabiatu's life as a nurse in the US
Ignoring withholding of removal orders
Forced return to Sierra Leone
Nika's story: Iranian protester detained
Body wraps and unknown destinations
Arrival in Central African Republic
How 3rd countries profit from deals
Legal challenges and court rulings
Financial incentives and UN aid
Visa waivers and tariff removals
Rabiatu's current situation and family impact
Closing and credits
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